I tire
of my kids
on somedays
I want to keep them safe
I can’t
I put them first
but lack the emotional ability to provide
they push my boundaries
casting shadows over my own memories
of self
I’m too busy trying to provide
its unnatural
what I am expected to be
in this world
I ache when I respond with lack of regard
and offer apologies
and hugs
but never enough.
what makes a parent toxic?
Great poem reflecting the frenetic nature of life. I would say you had it perfectly stated, without the need for the last line. If you want to go to the judgement in that last line I think you could go longer to help the reader understand and rationalize why the parent is being judged as toxic. Just a thought!
Thanks for sharing.